Atal Bihari Vajpayee likely to get Bharat Ratna

Wed, 10 Dec 2014 14:01:54 IST

New Delhi, Dec 10: Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is likely to be conferred the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the Republic of India, next year. The announcement is likely on Dec 25, the veteran's 90th birth anniversary.

The pressure came from the BJP and Shiv Sena to confer the Bharat Ratna award to the adorable leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee. BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi said that no one deserves the prestigious award Bharat Ratna more than Vajpayee.

Mathura MP and Bollywood actress Hema Malini also shared his views, stating, "He has done so much great work, and we as party members feel very honoured and happy that it is given to Atal Bihari Vajpayeeji".

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader Anant Geete said that his party wants Bharat Ratna to be awarded to the former prime minister.

Vajpayee is likely to be conferred the award on the Republic Day next year.

Last year, when the UPA Government had announced the Bharat Ratna for former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and scientist CNR Rao, the BJP had criticised the Congress for ignoring Vajpayee's contribution to the nation.